Man's Life-Changing Experience Getting Kisses From a Wolf Has Thousands Seething With Jealousy
The closest most people come to a wolf is while visiting their enclosure at the zoo, but at a very special animal sanctuary, visitors can come face-to-face with some of the most powerful and majestic canines. Still, only a lucky few get kisses from their new wolf friends!
@Hashtagkarenag shared a mind-blowing video from the New Jersey wolf dog sanctuary on April 13, and it quickly picked up speed online. In the clip, Karen's husband, John, shares a special moment of connection with a wolf dog named Aristos, but the animal gave everyone a pleasant surprise when he leaned in to kiss the man.
@hashtagkarenag Imm not saying he cried. But he definitely cried. Such a softy! Aristos is a wolfdog at Howling Woods Farm in Jackson, NJ. Howling Woods Farm is an educational facility providing learning experiences to the public about wolves and wolfdogs. All are welcome to visit but you have to make an appointment first. #wolf#wolfsanctuary#howlingwoodsfarm
original sound - Karen Hashtag
This looks like a dream come true! Aristos approached John just like any other dog would, even giving him a full sniff inspection-but then everything changed when he offered a kiss. Many viewers agree it seemed like the ultimate sign of approval!
"I'd cry if a wolf kissed me," commenter @socalix admitted. I think many people would! It's already a big deal when a dog shares their love, but it would feel both humbling and thrilling to get this level of affection from a wolf.
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And then there were animal lovers like @mariacp1991 who joked, "I just know John was plotting on how to take him home." Just about any reaction is relatable when one comes face-to-face with a beautiful wolf dog! Some see Aristos as a fearsome king of the forest, while others see a giant puppy, and both sides are completely correct.
Others who have been chosen by wolves and wolf dogs have confirmed that it's just as magical as it looks. @Missydabspd shared, "A wolf kissed my toddler son (who is autistic and uses a wheelchair) out of nowhere at a powwow. Wolf then proceeded to stick right by him the whole time we were there." Pass the tissues, please!
New Jersey Wolf Dog Sanctuary
Where did Josh and Karen have this magical experience? This wolf dog tour took place at Howling Woods Farm in Jackson, New Jersey, where visitors interact with friendly wolf dogs and learn more about these incredible hybrids. The farm is also home to coy dogs, which have coyote lineage, though it isn't clear whether these canines are up for visiting, too.
There are other wolf and wolf dog sanctuaries across the country, so just about anyone can learn more about these incredible animals. If you're lucky, you might even get kisses-just like John did!
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This story was originally published April 16, 2026 at 5:45 PM.